5. Drum#

Drums are an integral part of the New Orleans jazz tradition, and the characteristic sound and feel of the music is shaped in large part by the drumming style. In this chapter, we will explore the various characteristics of traditional New Orleans jazz drums, and how they contribute to the overall sound and feel of the music.

We will examine the driving and energetic rhythms played by New Orleans drummers, and how they use syncopation and polyrhythms to add interest and complexity to their playing. We will also look at the use of various percussion instruments by New Orleans drummers, and how they add texture and variety to the music. Finally, we will discuss the individual expression and style of New Orleans drummers, and how each drummer brings their own unique approach to the music.

By understanding the characteristics of traditional New Orleans jazz drums, we can better appreciate the role of the drums in shaping the sound and feel of this exciting and vibrant musical style.

5.1. Rhytmic feel#

“Between the cracks feel” is a term that is often used to describe a specific style of groove or feel in New Orleans jazz. This style is characterized by a loose, relaxed feel that is somewhere between a straight, four-beat feel and a swinging, triplet-based feel. It is often described as falling “between the cracks” of these two traditional jazz feels.

In a New Orleans jazz performance, the between the cracks feel is typically created by the rhythm section, which includes the drums, bass, and piano. The drummer may play a groove that combines elements of a straight four-beat feel with a more syncopated, triplet-based feel, while the bass and piano provide a foundation for the rhythm.

The between the cracks feel is often associated with traditional New Orleans jazz and the blues, and it is known for its laid-back, groovy feel. It can be found in a variety of jazz and blues styles, including brass band music, swing, and bebop.

5.2. Roll-off#

n this chapter, we will take a closer look at the traditional roll-off, a drumming technique that has played an integral role in shaping the sound of New Orleans brass bands. To give you a better understanding of the roll-off, we will be showing a video of a New Orleans brass band performing the technique, along with a small transcription of the drumming pattern. This will give you a sense of the rhythm and energy that defines the roll-off, and how it adds to the overall sound of the brass band.

5.3. Shimmy beat#

The shimmy beat is a rhythmic pattern that was popularized by New Orleans drummer Baby Dodds, who was a key figure in the early jazz tradition. The shimmy beat is characterized by a driving pulse on the bass drum, and a syncopated snare drum pattern played on the backbeats (the second and fourth beats of the measure). The shimmy beat is often played at a fast tempo, and is characterized by a strong, energetic feel.

Baby Dodds was known for his powerful and dynamic drumming style, and his contributions to the jazz tradition have had a lasting impact on the music. The shimmy beat is just one of many rhythmic patterns that Dodds played, and he is widely recognized as an important pioneer in the development of jazz drumming.

5.4. Second Line beat#

This is a rhythmic pattern that is characterized by a steady, driving pulse on the bass drum, and a syncopated snare drum pattern played on the second and fourth beats of the measure. The second line beat is a key element of the New Orleans jazz tradition, and is often used to create a lively and energetic feel.

5.5. Marching beat#

This is a rhythmic pattern that is characterized by a steady, driving pulse on the bass drum, and a simple snare drum pattern played on the first and third beats of the measure. The marching beat is often used to create a military-style march feel, and is an important part of the New Orleans jazz tradition.

5.6. Street Beat#

5.7. Back Beat#

5.8. Traditional Beat#

The Rebirth Brass Band is a New Orleans-based ensemble that has achieved international acclaim for their high-energy performances and infectious brass sound. In this drum workshop, Keith Frazier and Derrick Tabb, two of the band’s drummers, will provide an introduction to the traditional New Orleans beat.

As members of the Rebirth Brass Band, Frazier and Tabb are deeply steeped in the musical traditions of their city. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to this workshop.

During the Jazz Congress 2021 Masterclass: New Orleans Drumming with Herlin Riley. He, a native of New Orleans and a master of the city’s unique rhythmic style, led participants on a journey into the heart of the New Orleans drumming tradition.

During the masterclass, Riley provided a comprehensive overview of the techniques and principles that define the New Orleans beat. He demonstrated the rhythms and syncopations, and provided a great backstory about about his life.

5.9. Swing beat#

This is a rhythmic pattern that is characterized by a steady, driving pulse on the bass drum, and a swing-style snare drum pattern played on the backbeats (the second and fourth beats of the measure). The swing beat is an essential part of the jazz tradition, and is often used to create a swinging, upbeat feel.

5.10. Latin beat#

5.10.1. Resources#

In this video from the 1980s, Johnny Vidacovich and Herlin Riley sit down for interviews about their approach to New Orleans style drumming. As two of the city’s most respected drummers, their insights and experiences provide a unique window into the world of New Orleans music.

Vidacovich and Riley discuss the rhythms and beats that define the New Orleans sound, and share their tips and techniques for mastering this style. They talk about the importance of groove and feel, and the role of the drummer in a New Orleans band.

These interviews offer a rare opportunity to hear from two of the masters of New Orleans drumming, and provide valuable insight for drummers and music enthusiasts alike. If you’re interested in the music of New Orleans, or just want to learn more about drumming, this video is a must-see.

Drum

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